Frequent Questions
And their answers
Are these Really Hand Made?
Yes, absolutely. Hand made and each piece is unique right down to the grain of the wood itself. We start with raw wood, turn it on a lathe and decorate. Even when we use some digital work in the design, we design our own original works and print them ourselves. Everything is done by us from scratch, by hand. Want to know more – see our process.
Of course , handmade also means that items may have minor blemishes,. This often adds to the charm for those who appreciate hand made.
How can I use them?
Many people use our items for decoration on a shelf, hung on a wall or as a centrepiece for a table. However, you can really use them!
- Plates, platters, bowls, boxes – water, soap, oil, fat and fruit acids are all fine. Generally all food stuffs are fine. Avoid alcohol.
- Vases, Treasures – Check the listing of individual items. In general, all items are waterproof unless stated otherwise.
We do NOT recommend cutting on our products as you are likely to damage the surface.
You add epoxy to wood, is this ecological?
Plastic is a basic element of woodworking. Did you know that PVA (wood glue) is a plastic? Varnish is plastic. Even lignin (wood is composed of lignin and cellulose) is a long chain polymer like epoxy, albeit a natural one. By using epoxy Fairytale Wood is able to use wood that would only be burnt otherwise and create something beautiful. We also use reclaimed woods and even trees we have grown ourselves which makes our pieces even more ecological.
Is your packaging ecological?
Absolutely. We use paper , wood shavings and cardboard for our packaging materials. We are compliant with German packaging laws for goods we send there. and pay an offset fee as requested.
How can I maintain my purchase?
Simply wipe clean with a damp cloth. Use soap if you wish.
Do not use alcohol based liquids (such as anti-bacterial sprays) as they will attack the finish. Wipe off alcohol spills.
What about Food Safety?
Our products are food safe. In detail, the finishes we use are traditional wood finishes that are safe for incidental food contact. We advise not using knives on our products as this could result in microplastics and surface scratches. Further our finishes are BETTER with fruits, oils and fats than plain wood products. Plain (or oiled) wood products need upkeep and attention, ours do not. Plain wood products are more to bacteria in the grain. Shellac or wax finishes require extensive maintenance too – ours do not. Shellac degrades in contact with acid such as from fruit – our finish does not.
Does Epoxy create Microplastics?
All plastics have the potential to create microplastics. However, the amount of microplastics in humans is less than a grain of sand. If you gathered it all, extracted it, you couldn’t even see it. Yes, there have been famous sensationalist news articles about this subject but the science papers they are based on have been debunked for using incorrect scientific method. If it would calm you down, we suggest listening to the well researched Science Vs podcast on the subject.
In the end epoxy should not be used on cutting surfaces but for incidental contact, drinking, food display, food presentation or storage, it is safe and will not present a risk of microplastic consumption.
Can I return my purchase if I am not happy?
Of course. Its hard for you and for us when you are not satisfied. So to make this as smooth as possible, please see our returns policy. We make the procedure as simple and pain free as safely possible. Commissions cannot be returned but we make every effort in the process to make sure you are happy with our work.
One plate is fine but what if I want a matching set?
Great! As we focus on each item being unique, buying a set (two or more identical items) is a commission – but a cheap one you’ll be glad to hear. Contact us in the first instance and explain your need. We’ll estimate time and cost for you. You pay a deposit for design and purchase of materials and then we execute. The deposit is discounted from your final purchase price. Please see our commissions page.
How do I find out about the latest pieces first?
You can keep track of everything we do with our Newsletter – Tales from Fairytale Wood. You not only get sneak previews and new releases but behind the scenes look, fun facts and stories as well as exclusive subscriber discounts. Subscribe here for discounts! Oh and rest assured, every news letter has an unsubscribe button in it so you’ll never be spammed.
Where do you get your inspiration?
We love stories and nature. Stories , fairytales, myths, legends – you name it we love it. Chris has a fascination for patterns and geometry, especially culturally related and Kasia has a love of art and handcraft. Mix that up with a passion for movies, science fiction and fantasy and we end up with a heady cocktail of inspirations that must be distilled to what is possible in the medium of woodturning.
Chris and Kasia RecoMMEND
Elven Walnut Bowl
105.00 €
Labyrinth Bowl
215.00 €
Heavy Celtic Dish
185.00 €